Life can seem like a series of terrible storms that threaten everything that matters to you. The winds of anger or the downpours of sadness seem overwhelming. At times, it may be hard to imagine that you’ll even survive the destruction. Talk to a counselor for help.
When two tornadoes hit Yazoo City in 2010, the damage to homes and families was immense. Afterwards, the residents faced the difficult task of rebuilding. Whether you are facing a personal disaster now or trying to recover from one, talk to a therapist in the Yazoo City area.
Shawna Pankonin
Hello, and thank you for taking your time to learn more about me! My name is Shawna, I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Mississippi. I have over 12 years’ experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including: in homes, providing residential level of care therapy services, schools, youth court systems throughout the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, outpatient services, as well as a Child Advocacy Center. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working in a several different settings, with a broad range of clinical issues. I believe the best way to truly understand what someone is going through is to understand where they come from, let them be the expert on themselves and provide the services they need to help them succeed. I have the most experience working with stress reduction, anxiety, depression, anger management, family conflict, parenting skills, relationship conflict, and complex trauma/abuse. I also have experience with a wide variety of mental health disorders. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from years of working with children, adolescents and their families, in state custody; along with watching friends and family members struggle with mental illness. I have seen firsthand that having mental health concerns can be difficult and cause feelings of despair and isolation; not to mention the process for getting help can be overwhelming. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find the right support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I use a person-centered, holistic, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor my treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your personal thoughts, beliefs and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. I am very creative and do not like to conform our sessions into something that will place a box around it. I want it to go where it needs to go for you to get what you need to feel empowered and in control. Remember, no one is a magician. No one can "fix" your situation. It will take time and hard work on your part to make the changes you want. If you're willing to put in the work, I'm willing to walk alongside you and work as well! Together we can work on establishing goals and steps for you to understand the problem and gain the confidence to move forward and feel more in control of your life. Throughout my years of practice I’ve found a recurrent theme: the need to be heard, to be validated, and to know you are not alone!
Merle Montalvo
I am a social worker licensed at LCSW level in Mississippi. Sometimes we need someone to help us make needed changes or keep track of how we’re doing with the many ways we and our lives can change. Becoming a social worker was a midlife transition for me. “It’s never too late.” was a saying that became a mantra as I learned from challenges related to making a new life 30+ years ago. But now, with a stronger cognitive perspective, I’d change that to, “It’s not too late right now”. My cultural background is mixed. To me, each person is unique, but our common humanity makes us alike. My experience is broad including : outpatient, inpatient, IOP, home health and hospice. I take an eclectic approach towards working with others, so that I can fit what I offer to your individual needs. Modalities and techniques I can bring to our work include: humanistic, insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, wholistic, and solution focused .
Ashley Whitfield
Hello! I want to commend you for reaching out for support; you have taken a major step toward finding satisfaction in your life. My name is Ashley and I am pleased to join you on this journey of growth and wellness. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Mississippi. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy services in many different settings including schools, clinics, and community agencies. I am a wife and mother of three awesome children. From personal experience, I understand how complex trauma and systemic disadvantage can affect families, generation after generation. I am happy to finally be in a position to help heal others and promote wellness in communities. I have dedicated my life to helping others overcome obstacles to find peace, joy, wellness, and fulfillment in life. My therapeutic approach is based in Adlerian/Individual Psychology, Behavioral Counseling, and Strategic Brief Counseling. What this means is that I will work with you to develop a healthy, holistic lifestyle by analyzing your current circumstances and developing more gratifying behavior patterns. I have worked with clients struggling through mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, attention deficit, and career/educational advancement. I would love the opportunity to assist with breaking down the barriers that are in your way!
Dr. Lawana Mabry
I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health, as well as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my doctorate degree from Arizona State University. I earned my undergraduate and graduate degrees from Louisiana State University. I have been rendering professional counseling services throughout the state of Louisiana for the last for 15 years. My work experience includes a variety of clinical backgrounds, such as child protection, grief therapy, medical social work, school social work, inpatient psychiatric social work, individual, family & group psychotherapy as well as serving as the clinical director of an outpatient behavioral health agency with multiple locations in Louisiana. I have also rendered intense trauma-focused therapy to children who have endured or witnessed different forms of trauma such as being sexually abused or witnessing domestic violence or a murder. I pride myself with meeting each client where they are in hopes of helping them to get to where they desire to be. I look forward to working with you to help you reach your individualized goals.
Deborah (Debbie) Dobbins
Hi my name is Debbie and thank you for looking at my profile. I am a warm and supportive therapist. I believe that therapy helps people find their "true" self - the person they really are and were before negative things made them think they were something else. I work together with clients to make goals for therapy and believe that the client is the expert on themselves and that is why they need to be listened to. It is an honor and privilege for a client to trust me . I am good listener and might even throw in some humor, as appropriate. I believe that everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect and the relationship the client and therapist have is of utmost importance. I hold a Master of Science degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and in Mississippi. I have experience with anxiety, depression, abuse, neglect, trauma, as well as adoption, foster care, parenting, and blended families.
Dr. Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW
BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW I received my Bachelor’s Degree in 1973 in Social Science from Mississippi Valley State University. I was accepted in the first Masters of Social Work Program at the University of Southern Mississippi graduating in 1975. I was awarded the first Social Worker of the Year by the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 1992. I was accepted in the first Ph.D. Program in Social Work at Jackson State University graduating in 2000, with the primary focus in Psychotherapeutic Social Work. Prior to retiring from Private Practice, I was part owner and CEO of Family Counseling Services, PLLC in Meridian, MS. This was a Private Behavioral Health Care Group Practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, PhD Clinical Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. While in Private Practice, I specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy, Cognitive/Affective Disorders, to include patients experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Disorder. After retirement, I accepted the offer to serve as a group therapist for Rush/Ochsner Intensive Outpatient Psychogeriatric Programs. These are IOP's throughout East Mississippi. In 2000, I accepted to be a consultant for Rush Psychogeriatric Intensive Outpatient Programs. In this role, I help develop the Behavioral Healthcare Program for geriatric patients with mental health, aging and emotional conditions. After developing these Programs, I provided training for social workers, psychiatrist and nurses. Afterward, I surveyed these Programs in accordance to CMS guidelines. In 1999 I accepted the consulting role with East Mississippi Correctional Facility, a private prison under the management of the GEO Group, Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. In that consulting role, I designed the first exclusive mental health program in corrections in the United States. February 2006, I accepted the full-time position as Deputy Warden of Mental Health Programs with East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF), and maintained my private practice with Family Counseling Services, PLLC. From 1973 to 1985, I served as Assistant Director for Region Ten (Weems) Mental Health Center covering a catchment area of nine counties in East Central Mississippi. In that role, I wrote the Initial Operation Grant for Weems Mental Health Center and other grants. 1986, I served as Clinical Director and an investor of Laurel Wood Psychiatric Hospital in Meridian, MS. I served fifteen years on the Meridian School Board of Trustees, serving two terms as President. I was elected as Region Ten National Association of Social Work Representative for the Nomination and Leadership Committee, representing Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee. 1994, I was appointed to the first Mississippi Social Workers Licensure Board serving one term as chairman. I served as an Auditor of Correctional Facilities in the United States for the American Correctional Association (ACA). Also, I was a Psychiatric Social Worker Surveyor consultant for the Center of Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS), in which I surveyed public and private psychiatric hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid compliance in the United States. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Diplomat in Clinical Social Work, and Certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers. 2006, I was inducted in the Hall of Fame at Meridian Community College. I have served as a part-time instructor for Mississippi State University School of Social Working – Meridian Branch, Meridian Community College and Adjunct Faculty for the University of Southern Mississippi School of Social Work. I have provided the following professional presentations: • 2015 Techniques in the Provision of Group Psychotherapy - Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • 2017 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • Guest speaker for the 2010 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, LA. Topic: Efficacy of Mental Health Services in Corrections • Presenter at 2011 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in Chicago, Ill, Topic: Long Term Segregated Offender Mental Health Program. • Social Work Standards of Practice in Psychiatric Hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Seattle, WA • Assessment Interviewing Training for the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services- Jackson, MS • Stress Management Workshops for Industries, Hospitals and other professional organizations. • Interviewing Skills Training for the Department of Public Welfare; sponsored by the University of Southern Mississippi Continuing Education Department - Gulfport, MS • Assessment Interviewing/Assessment Training for the Bureau of Indian Affairs; Choctaw Reservation - Philadelphia, MS • Developing of Treatment Plans for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Baltimore, MD • Guest Speaker for the Institute of Rural Mental Health; Topic: Barriers for African Americans in Obtaining Mental Health Services In the Rural South • Operational Development of the Psychosocial Assessments – Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Kansas City, MO I have authored the following publications: Book: How to Prevent the Collision of the Two Worlds we Live, Publisher - Mulberry Book, LLC, 2020. Hospitalized Africa American Men with Mental Illness: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Skills, Volume 6, Number 3, winter 2002. Hospitalized African American Mental Health Consumers: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Volume 75, Number 2, pp. 254-261, 2005. I have been married to Catherine Nelson Gillispie since 1973. We have a daughter Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell who is a physician of OBGY at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans and son, Rashad Gillispie a graduate of MVSU with a degree in computer science. My wife and I attend North Park church in Meridian, MS a multiracial and cultural congregation. Licensed and Certifications: • Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Counselor - #COO82 • Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) - #881216796 • Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) - #006164
Amy White
Hi there! My name is Amy White and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. I have over 4 years of private clinical work experience and over 10 years of field experience. I aim to help clients reduce experiences related to stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. In our sessions we'll work towards meeting goals by utilizing specific strategies that work best for you. My approach is very individualistic and client-centered. We’ll work to "reshape" thoughts in a way that promotes your mental health and happiness. I’ll help you develop specific skills to be able to overcome the challenges that you are currently facing. I would love to be on the journey with you to find the happiest and healthiest you! I look forward to working with you.
Adrienne Carlisle
I am licensed in Mississippi with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Monica Turner Lowery
As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My professional approach centers on empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding and resilience, particularly for women, young adults, and families navigating significant personal transformations. My expertise encompasses addressing depression, relationship dynamics, communication barriers, and personal growth challenges. I'm deeply committed to helping clients explore themes of self-love, purpose, healing from shame, and rebuilding healthy connections—whether in romantic partnerships, family systems, or personal relationships. Drawing from nearly two decades of clinical experience, I create a compassionate, affirming space where clients can courageously examine their experiences. My practice honors the unique journey of each individual, with a particular focus on supporting women through diverse life stages, relationship complexities, and personal healing processes. I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership, believing that every person possesses inherent strength and capacity for meaningful change. Together, we'll work to uncover your authentic path forward, addressing underlying emotional patterns and cultivating sustainable personal growth.
William Grall
Perhaps the reason you are reading this right now is because you feel like your life is out of control, unmanageable, or just plain "stuck?" Maybe you feel like you are in a nightmare every day and you just cannot seem to wake up? Your marriage, your relationships, your work, your finances, your home, your children, your everything feels like it is all crumbling to pieces and possibly you are even losing yourself in the process! No matter how hard you try, you feel hopeless and helpless, and like you cannot get a grip on it all. Please know that you are not alone in this struggle. A crisis is anything that comes up in your life that you do not have a support network great enough to overcome. Seeking help outside of yourself is the first step toward gaining a different perspective that will give you what you need to regain your footing and get your life back on the right path. This path of "bold, relentless, love" is a journey of discerning and discovering what is best for both you and others and then doing that thing with ZERO expectations. I would be honored if you would choose me to be a part of your support network to overcome your crisis through learning how to love both you and others well. I am licensed in Alabama and Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have empowering, evidence-based principles that I have used for years to help clients with stress and anxiety, marital problems, addictions, trauma and abuse, and bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to love yourself and others boldly and to take the first steps towards discovering what it means to go "all-in" on life. Please reach out asap so that I can support & empower you in that journey so that your crises will fade away as you learn to navigate the river of life.
David Hopkins
I have been working in the mental field since 2006, and as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2016. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger, and coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Derrius Miller
I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Reta Chandler
As a licensed therapist in Mississippi, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and anger management. This also has allowed me to work with those individuals with substance abuse issues and help them to understand triggers in their lives and how to develop and live a sober life. I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenging emotional terrain, focusing on areas like self-love, communication challenges, social anxiety, life purpose, and healing from past experiences. My practice honors individual experiences while providing supportive, thoughtful guidance through personal transformation. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with genuine empathy, creating a safe space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with professional care and respect.
Sharon Holmberg
I am licensed in Mississippi with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Find a Therapist Near You in Yazoo City , Mississippi
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Mississippi can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
With a population of Mississippi_POPULATION, Mississippi is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Mississippi, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Mississippi (MS). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Mississippi_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Mississippi with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Mississippi
When searching for a therapist near me in Mississippi, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Mississippi, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Mississippi.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Mississippi want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Mississippi
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Mississippi without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Mississippi (MS)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Mississippi
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Mississippi, including residents in Mississippi_COUNTIES.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Mississippi do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.